A Mid-Season Clash with High Stakes
As the Premier League reaches its halfway mark for the 2024-25 season, Chelsea heads into the new year aiming to reclaim momentum. Sitting in fourth place with 38 points, the Blues are determined to break their three-match winless streak and secure a strong finish to the campaign. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace, rejuvenated after a shaky start, will look to leverage their recent improvements to challenge Chelsea on home turf.
Match Details
- Date & Time: Saturday, January 4, 2024, 15:00 GMT
- Venue: Selhurst Park, London
- Referee: Tim Robinson (on pitch); Paul Tierney (VAR)
- Weather: Cold, barely above freezing
Viewing Options
- UK: No TV coverage; no streaming
- USA: Peacock
- India: Star Sports Select HD2; Disney+ Hotstar
- Nigeria: SuperSports Blitz; Canal+ Sport 5; DStv Now
Crystal Palace: Revitalized and Resilient
Crystal Palace started the season under Oliver Glasner on a dismal note, failing to win any of their first eight matches. However, recent months have seen a turnaround. With four wins and five draws in their last 11 games, Palace has climbed to 15th place, creating a modest buffer from relegation.
Despite their defensive stability—conceding more than two goals in only one game—they struggle offensively, grappling with the absence of Michael Olise. Key players missing from this match include captain Will Hughes and midfielder Adam Wharton. Cheick Doucouré, who recently returned from injury, will be one to watch, given his history of unsettling Chelsea.
Chelsea: Battling Injuries and Inconsistencies
Chelsea enters this fixture with a mix of good and bad news. Reece James is set to return, boosting their defense, while Wesley Fofana and Benoît Badiashile remain sidelined. Defensively, Chelsea has shown vulnerabilities, conceding more goals than all but four teams in the league.
Manager Enzo Maresca’s possession-based approach has been effective, but predictable. Players like Cole Palmer and João Félix will be crucial in breaking down Palace’s organized defense. With pressure mounting, Chelsea must focus on precise execution and capitalize on their attacking strengths to secure three points.
Historical Edge and the Road Ahead
Chelsea has dominated this fixture in recent years, with 13 consecutive wins against Palace before a draw in their earlier meeting this season. A victory here would not only boost morale but also reaffirm Chelsea’s top-four ambitions.
